The ANZAC Day is famous in Australia and New Zealand to honor those who lost their lives in the Gallipoli journey during World War 1. ANZAC is the short form for Australia and New Zealand. The two countries were a part of the allied forces and had sent their soldiers to arrest the Gallipoli Peninsula and then ultimately Constantinople the capital of the Turkish Ottoman Empire; an ally of the Germans.
The forces landed on Gallipoli on 25th April; the allies’ plan which seemed simple backfired and the ANZAC forces faced stiff resistance from the Turks. Eight months later the expedition was called off and the forces were evacuated. There was a heavy loss of life on both sides. An estimate of 8,000 Australian soldiers and 2,700 New Zealand soldiers were killed. Although the expedition failed miserably, it ignited a sense of pride among the two nations and the whole world appreciated their bravery, commitment and loyalty. In 1916, 25th April was officially recognized as the ANZAC Day.
In Australia, remembrance services are held at dawn and are mostly attended by war veterans and the family members of the soldiers. Later in the day, a ceremony takes place at the Australian War Memorial which is attended by the Prime Minister and other government dignitaries. Main features of the memorial services are lying of wreath, prayers, a recitation, a few minutes silence. The service usually ends with Reveille, the bugler’s call to wake up and the national anthem.
More About Sydney
Sydney is famous as an energetic and international city, merging excellent business and education facilities with great spare time.
When to go to Australia
Australia is situated in the Southern Hemisphere and therefore the winter from May to August while November to March is summer months. Further information, please click here.
